Appendix Removal Surgery Complications: Risks And Possible Side Effects

Appendix Removal Surgery

Do you have your appendix removal surgery scheduled soon? But you are too afraid about its post-operative complications and risk! If so, you need to read this blog till the end. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about appendix removal surgery (also known as appendectomy surgery), including the procedure, benefits, risks and complications, side effects and everything in between. 

By the end of this blog, you will be aware of the risks and complications associated with appendectomy. Additionally, we will share some tips to minimise the likelihood of experiencing the side effects of appendectomy. 

So, let’s dive into the blog and eliminate your fear and myths about appendectomy surgery! 

What is an Appendectomy?

Appendectomy is a general surgery procedure to remove the appendix. It is performed when the appendix is inflamed. The condition is commonly known as appendicitis.

What is Appendix?

The appendix is a small vestigial organ in your abdomen. It is attached to the large intestines near its connection to the small intestine. It is a finger-shaped pouch that projects near the union of small and large intestines and is on the right side of your abdomen (neat waistline). As mentioned, it is a vestigial organ with no body function. 

Appendicitis is a medical condition caused due to inflammation of the appendix. It is a painful condition that can only worsen as the inflammation increases and becomes severe. Eventually, the pain becomes unbearable, and it can also lead you to an emergency room.

Appendix Removal Surgery 1


Symptoms of Appendicitis

Appendicitis causes severe discomfort and pain to the patient. The signs and symptoms of appendicitis include:

  • Severe pain around your belly button and right abdomen.
  • Sharp pain during walking and coughing.
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of appetite
  • Abdominal swelling
  • Fever
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhoea

 

According to Dr Manoj Nagvekar, an expert General & Laparoscopic Surgeon in Mumbai, the signs and symptoms of appendicitis are often confused with kidney stones, acidity discomfort, or menstrual cramps in women. To find relief from the underlying pain, patients often consume painkillers which cause delays in the treatment of appendicitis. This delay in the treatment can cause potential hazards to the patient, and thus it is necessary that the patient immediately seeks a surgeon or physician to get the condition diagnosed. 


Cause of Appendicitis

There are many causes of appendicitis, such as injury, infection, underlying digestive problems, etc. However, the most common cause of appendicitis is the blockage of the appendix, which leads to the growth of bacteria in the appendix. This bacterial growth leads to inflammation, swelling and the formation of pus. If untreated, it can lead to further complications, and appendectomy is necessary.

Complications of Appendicitis

Untreated appendicitis can cause serious problems, such as,

Rupturing of Appendix: 

Rupturing of the appendix can be very serious. It leads to the spread of infection throughout your abdomen, causing peritonitis. This is a life-threatening infection, requiring immediate appendectomy and cleaning of your abdominal cavity. 

Formation of Pus Pockets in Abdomen: 

Rupturing of the appendix also leads to developing pus pockets throughout your abdomen. These pus pockets allow further microbial growth leading to further infection (abscess). 

This abscess is also very life-threatening as it may lead to multiple organ failure. This abscess needs to be drained. This is treated via appendectomy, placing a catheter into the abscess wall. This catheter drains the pus, and antibiotics help eliminate the infection-causing bacteria. 

According to Dr Rajeev Kansal, a specialist General Surgeon in Delhi, patients often delay the treatment of appendicitis either due to late diagnosis or due to the fear of surgery. This delay leads to severe infection and the formation of pus in the appendix. The condition is called an appendicular lump. If this appendicular lump bursts, it leads to a medical emergency, which is life-threatening. In such emergencies, immediate open surgery is done. Dr Rajeev advises patients to get the condition diagnosed in time to manage it without any complications.


How is an Appendectomy Performed?

In most cases, appendectomy is performed in emergency situations. The appendix removal surgery (appendectomy) is performed in two ways:

  • Open appendectomy
  • Laparoscopic appendectomy

 

Open Appendectomy

In an open appendectomy, the surgeon makes a small incision of about two to four inches on the lower right side of your abdomen. The surgeon removes the appendix, clears your abdominal cavity, and stitches back the incision. 

It is usually performed under local anaesthesia and requires an overnight or longer stay at the hospital before discharge. The recovery time for an open appendectomy is around 4-6 weeks. 

Laparoscopic Appendectomy 

A laparoscopic appendectomy is a surgical procedure done with the help of a laparoscope. During the surgery, the surgeon makes two to three very small incisions to pass the laparoscope equipped with a camera and surgical tools. The surgeon sees everything on the TV monitor and removes the appendix using surgical tools. 

Laparoscopic surgery is less painful and leaves less scarring than open appendectomy. Moreover, the recovery time for laparoscopic surgery is also less than the counterpart. Laparoscopic surgery requires less hospital stay and has really low infection and complication rates.

Appendix Removal Surgery 3


Benefits of Appendix Removal Surgery

An appendix removal surgery is the standard treatment for appendicitis. The potential benefits of appendectomy include the following:

  • Relief from discomfort and pain
  • Prevention of appendix bursting
  • Cleaning of the abdominal cavity (in case appendicitis has burst)


Is Appendectomy Safe? What are the Risks and Complications of Appendectomy?

Appendectomy is generally a safe procedure, but like any other surgery, it involves some risks. Some common risks and side effects of appendectomy include:

  • Would infection
  • Bleeding
  • Scarring
  • Inflammation and swelling around the belly where incisions are made
  • Reaction with anaesthesia 
  • Irregular and blocked bowels
  • Injury to nearby organs
  • Bowel issues
  • Abdominal pain and discomfort around the incision sites
Appendix Removal Surgery 4


Tips to Minimise the Risks and Complications Associated with Appendectomy

The risks and complications associated with appendectomy surgery can be minimised and managed with proper care.

To have a safe and sound appendectomy experience, it is important to consult an expert and get operated on at the best hospital for surgery in India. 

Your best surgeon will discuss the treatment options, procedures, and associated complications and risks. The surgeon also prepares a treatment plan for you, including pre-operative instructions and post-operative care. 

Also, refrain from lifting and performing strenuous tasks for better recovery. 

Additionally, following a healthy diet and taking prescribed medications can also help minimise the risks during and after the surgery. 

Also, follow up with your surgeon and attend all scheduled appointments to ensure a smooth recovery.

Additionally, Dr Qazi Mubasir, a General and Laparoscopic Surgeon in Aurangabad, advises paying more attention to the food you eat. Eat food with more fibre and increase your water intake. Fibre and water intake helps in digestion and bowel movement, which also helps in recovery. Moreover, with a balanced diet and more water intake, appendicitis can be prevented in the first place. But if it occurs, it is very important to get it surgically removed.


Cost of Appendectomy Surgery

In India, the price of an appendectomy ranges from ₹40,000 to ₹70,000. This can be very expensive, so some people don’t get the treatment they need. This can cause major problems, like rupturing and put your health at risk. You must see a doctor immediately to prevent these complications.

Managing Appendectomy Surgery Cost with GMoney

GMoney provides no-cost EMI medical loan options to individuals with financial problems paying for medical procedures like appendectomy surgery. These loans offer flexible repayment options with no added interest or fees.

In addition, GMoney’s straightforward online application and prompt disbursement make it possible for consumers to receive the necessary financial aid without unnecessary stress or lengthy delays.

Medical loan process


FAQs

1) What is an appendectomy? 

An appendectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the appendix.

2) Why is an appendectomy performed? 

An appendectomy is usually performed to treat appendicitis, which is inflammation of the appendix.

3) How is an appendectomy performed? 

An appendectomy can be performed through open surgery or laparoscopic surgery.

4) What is the recovery time for an appendectomy? 

Recovery time for an appendectomy can vary from a few days to several weeks, depending on the type of surgery and the patient’s health.

5) Is an appendectomy a major surgery? 

An appendectomy can be considered a major surgery because it involves removing an organ from the body.

6) Can I use GMoney medical loans to pay for my appendectomy surgery?

Yes, you can use GMoney medical loans to cover the costs of your appendectomy surgery.

7) What is the interest rate for GMoney medical loans?

GMoney offers medical loans with zero interest rates and no hidden charges.

8) Is an appendectomy painful? 

Pain and discomfort are common after an appendectomy but can be managed with painkillers.

9) Are there any processing fees for no-cost EMI at GMoney for appendectomy surgery?

No, there are no processing fees for no-cost EMI at GMoney for appendectomy surgery.

10) What are the risks of an appendectomy? 

The risks of an appendectomy include bleeding, infection, damage to other organs, and anaesthesia complications.

11) How long does an appendectomy take? 

An appendectomy can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the type of surgery.

Conclusion

Appendectomy surgery is a standard procedure used to treat appendicitis. The benefits include pain reduction and rupture prevention. As with any surgery, there are risks and potential complications, but these can be avoided with appropriate care and consultation with an experienced surgeon.

To avoid serious problems, it’s important to get medical help as soon as possible and, if needed, to look into financing options like GMoney’s no-cost EMI medical loans. People can have a safe and successful appendectomy surgery with the proper care and resources.

 

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